9 Greatest Videos Of CES 2012

We captured many cool gadgets and technologies in action at CES 2012, but check out our favorites, from an envy-inspiring Porsche to a spinning phone charger.

My favorite thing from CES was…well, really everything. Along with standouts like stunning OLED TVs from the likes of Samsung and LG, our CES team saw an abundance of new phones and tablets. We found a wealth of practical gadgets and fascinating technology at CES, some of it hiding in the crevices along the backsides of forgotten hotel ballrooms.

Technology is now forcing its way into every aspect of our lives. Patients are getting wiser about their ailments, and also about their wellness, thanks to a slew of online and mobile app references. But the sudden emergence of gadgets that can attach to the phone and monitor heart rates and blood-oxygen levels, sleep, and exercise is, if you'll forgive the expression, heart-stopping.

Those people who feel as if technology has become too invasive--for example, in the case of distracted driving—should consider the developments from companies like RIM's QNX and Ford, both of which want drivers keeping their hands on steering wheels and their eyes on the road. Ford has even created ways to alert distracted drivers. Future cars will come with the ability to monitor a driver's attention and wellness to enhance driving safety.

But the real "aha" moments at CES came from a few unexpected places. Aurasma's augmented reality browser was incredible fun, but the practical applications for it seem endless. DarbeeVision's HD video enhancement box impressed. nVolutions stood out as one of the most promising device recharging solutions (and there were many). We also found out that Apple's signal bars on the iPhone were questionable.

There's video of all of this, and more, for you to explore. Just visit our CES Special Report page for all of the coverage. But for now, check out our favorite tech demonstrations from CES 2012.

1. Voxlinc AfterShokz Bone-Conduction Headphones

It was difficult to walk the CES show floor without tripping on a pair of headphones. We even saw a company (Sonomax) with DIY custom-fit earbuds (called Eers.) But AfterShokz uses bone-conduction. The headphones sit in front of a listener's ears. The advantages: first, no more blasting your ears with sound; second, you can hear what's going on around you. And I tried them out--the sound quality is pretty darn good, especially for $59.99!

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